The GROW model for how to structure a coaching session is so widely used that its easy to
forget that there might be other great models. So I was intrigued to come across the CLEAR
model which provides a different perspective on what to focus on in a coaching session.
The CLEAR model was developed by Peter Hawkins (peter.hawkins@bathconsultancygroup.com)
in the early 1980s and so pre-dates the
GROW model. CLEAR is an acronym for:
- Contracting: Opening the discussion, setting the scope, establishing the desired outcomes, and agreeing the ground rules.
- Listening: Using active listening and catalytic interventions the coach helps the coachee develop their understanding of the situation and generate personal insight.
- Exploring 1: Helping the coachee to understand the personal impact the situation is having on themselves. Exploring 2: Challenging the coachee to think through possibilities for future action in resolving the situation.
- Action: Supporting the coachee in choosing a way ahead and deciding the next step.
- Review: Closing the intervention, reinforcing ground covered, decisions made and value added. The coach also encourages feedback from the client on what was helpful about the coaching process, what was difficult and what they would like to be different in future coaching sessions
What I particularly like about this model is its top and tail. Firstly, it makes explicit the
importance of not just having a goal (as does the GROW model) but also of the wider
contracting issues, encouraging questions like "How would you like me to coach you
today?", "What helps you learn?" and "What blocks your learning?".
Secondly the CLEAR model emphasises the importance of reviewing the session. This
is one of the most powerful tools we have for tuning our coaching to the evolving needs
of our clients (Thank you Laura!). Its easy when using the GROW model to feel that when
we have done the wrap-up (W) we're finished. Making reviewing the coaching effectiveness
one of the basic steps, as the CLEAR model does, reinforces the value and importance of
this stage. More on the CLEAR model in
Coaching, Mentoring and Consultancy: Polishing the Professional Mirror
.
